Over the last month the three children’s hospitals in Dublin have experienced an increase in Emergency Department (ED) attendances and admissions to inpatient beds. This week has seen particularly high levels of activity.

Of particular note is an increase in young children and infants presenting with respiratory infections, in particular a viral infection known as RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus). While this occurs every winter, the increase in presentations to our EDs has been more significant this season. Some babies and children with this virus can become very unwell requiring supportive treatment and prolonged hospital admissions. Based on previous infection control data it is anticipated that this virus will continue to be at peak levels for the next three to four weeks.

The three children’s EDs are open, however patients attending may experience long delays at this time. The hospitals wish to apologise to all patients inconvenienced by this situation, including patients that are scheduled for surgery and other elective procedures that we have had to postpone.

The Children’s Hospital Group is working closely with the Clinical Directors and hospital management in the three children’s hospitals to ensure that every effort is made to manage this situation and that those experiencing long waiting times in our EDs are managed as safely and quickly as possible

In order to safely manage all patients in the EDs, families of children with minor and less urgent complaints are advised to see their GP/out of hours service first, where possible and appropriate. However if your child is seriously ill or injured or you are worried that their life may be at risk, please attend one of our EDs and we will assess and treat your child as a priority.

Considering that RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) will remain at peak for the next three to four weeks, parents/guardians should also avoid bringing very small babies to social occasions where they may pick up an infection. For more information on Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) click here.